Blur to release new album – and will play BST Hyde Park gig

Blur have announced today (19 February) they will release their eighth studio album The Magic Whip on 27 April.

Speaking at a press conference in London's China Town this afternoon (19 February, listen below) – to mark Chinese New Year – the group revealed the album, co-produced with long term collaborator Stephen Street, was recorded in part in Hong Kong and boasts a Chinese themed cover.

The new LP features all four of the original line-up, the first time the band have recorded an album together since Graham Coxon left the group during sessions for 2003' Think Tank.

Additionally the band also confirmed they will return to London's Hyde Park on 20 June – scene of triumphant live reunions in 2009 and 2012 – to headline a night of the annual Barclaycard Presents British Summer Time festival.